Every Drop of Vaccine: A Step Towards a Polio-Free Future

Kunduz, Afghanistan – As dawn breaks and Kunduz city is enveloped in morning tranquility, with the call to prayer echoing from various mosques, 32-year-old vaccinator Mahriya Sarwari begins her day.

After completing her household chores, she dons her black chador, grabs the vaccine box, and strides confidently toward the fourth district of Kunduz city.

With a constant smile on her face, Mahriya works tirelessly and with strong resolve to convince parents, who often harbor doubts about polio vaccines due to misinformation, to vaccinate their children.

She understands that every conversation is an opportunity to change a child’s life, potentially saving them from the threat of polio without vaccination.

 

The Challenges and Motivations of a Vaccinator on the Frontlines

Mahriya’s life has been filled with challenges since childhood. After the death of her father, Gul Jan, the responsibility of providing for her family fell on her shoulders and she took it upon herself to care for her mother and sister.

Although she completed her studies in midwifery, she couldn’t find a job in her field. However, the opportunity provided by the polio eradication program opened new doors for her.

“This job is not just a source of income for me; I feel that I am contributing to saving children’s lives and improving the health of our community,” she shares.

 

Efforts to Eliminate Misconceptions

The areas where Mahriya works are home to residents who often hold traditional and misguided beliefs about polio vaccines. While some families welcome her warmly, others respond with rejection and even threats.

Mahriya recalls one such incident: “Once, a mother angrily chased me away from her home, believing that the polio vaccine causes infertility in children. That day, I felt very upset, but I promised myself that I would try to educate and convince this family.”

With patience and perseverance, Mahriya works to reassure parents and raise awareness about how vaccines prevent polio and other life-threatening diseases. She often shares examples of families who have faced challenges due to vaccine refusals.

“I always speak with families in a warm and sincere manner to earn their trust. Each family that understands the importance of vaccination represents a significant step toward securing children’s future,” she says.

 

Mahriya says, “This job is not just a source of income for me; I feel that I am contributing to saving children’s lives and improving the health of our community.” © Polio Free Afghanistan/ 2024/ Raqiba Hamidi

 

Vaccinated Children: Hopes for Tomorrow

One of Mahriya’s significant achievements has been convincing Mrs. Benafsha’s family to vaccinate their children.

Initially, this mother of three was fearful of vaccines, but Mahriya’s explanations changed everything.

Now, Benafsha says: “Mahriya helped me understand that vaccines can safeguard my children’s health. I am no longer afraid of the poliovirus.”

Naveedullah, a father of two, is also among the parents convinced by Mahriya’s explanations to vaccinate his children.

“Mahriya addressed all my concerns with scientific reasoning and real-life examples. I am now confident that vaccination is the best way to safeguard our children,” he says.

 

The Role of Vaccinators in Community Transformation

Dr. Esmat Ahadi, a physician in Kunduz, praises the efforts of Mahriya and other vaccinators like her, recognizing their vital contributions. He remarks that they not only save children’s lives but also reshape societal attitudes through awareness and education.

“Every vaccinator is an unsung hero who ensures the health of the community by raising awareness and fostering trust,” he adds.

 

Looking Forward

Despite all the hardships and challenges, Mahriya continues her work.

Each day, she steps forward with renewed hope, believing firmly that, “Every vaccinated child is a victory for a brighter future.”

Her story is one of courage, patience, and compassion for her community—a narrative that demonstrates how, even in the face of great challenges, we can strive to build a better tomorrow.

Raqiba Hamidi, Polio Free Afghanistan